Healthy Miami Living: Nutrition, Lifestyle, and Support for Mesothelioma Patients
- adriana
- Mar 6
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 7
Image by Brooke Lark / Unsplash
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the mesothelium. This is a thin layer of tissues that covers your internal organs. In mesothelioma patients, cells grow abnormally on these tissues, causing cancer.
There is no cure for mesothelioma. However, your quality of life can improve significantly with a better lifestyle and habits. A well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet can give you energy to cope with treatments. Similarly, a sound mind and good emotional well-being can help you stay positive. This way, you won't feel trapped in your own head. These things are crucial for your quality of life.
Read this article to learn more about nutrition and lifestyle as a mesothelioma patient.
Key Nutritional Considerations for Mesothelioma Patients
Here are three key health priorities mesothelioma patients must have and some food items to cater to them:
Boosting Immunity
A strong immune system is vital for mesothelioma patients. Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system. To combat this, you must eat foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Antioxidant vitamins, especially, can work wonders for your immune response. So, you must ensure your meals are rich with these. Here are some essentials:
Citrus fruits for vitamin C. They support immune function and wound healing.
Leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, have vitamin K, which helps improve cell function.
Berries for antioxidants
Garlic for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
Supporting Digestive Health
Chemotherapy impacts digestion, causing gastrointestinal issues. This can cause diarrhea, constipation, and more. You must consume foods that are gentle on your stomach. These include soft and bland foods, such as:
Cooked vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, sweet potatoes.
Rice
Lean proteins, like chicken or fish
Similarly, you must stay hydrated. Try the following beverages:
Coconut water provides hydration and electrolytes.
Herbal teas, like ginger or peppermint, to soothe nausea.
Maintaining Protein Levels
While eliminating cancer cells, chemotherapy can also damage healthy tissues. Additionally, mesothelioma patients lose body mass frequently. As a result, you need proteins for tissue repair and muscle strength. Here are some foods you can consume to combat this:
Lean meats like chicken and turkey.
Fish
Eggs and tofu
Legumes, such as lentils and chickpeas.
To fight against weight loss and cachexia (muscle wasting), consider the following:
Nutrient-packed smoothies
Nuts and seeds
Full-fat dairy products, such as cheese and milk.
Meal Planning
Meal planning can be of great help when dealing with your nutritional needs.
Here is a sample meal plan for you:
Breakfast
Start your day with a rich smoothie. Make a fruit smoothie with berries, orange juice, bananas, and yogurt. These will give you the essential antioxidants. They will also energize you to start your day. Living in Miami, you will probably crave something more refreshing. In this case, make your smoothie with spinach, papaya, and pineapple. Blend this with coconut water for hydration. You can also add protein powder to provide a healthy protein boost.
Lunch
You should opt for a high-protein lunch. A serving of locally caught Miami snapper is ideal here. You can pair this with sweet potatoes, rich in vitamins A and C. Have a healthy and fresh salad. Ensure it is full of green vegetables, such as lettuce, broccoli, and cucumbers on the side. You can substitute the fish for grilled chicken. It's best to add a side of sautéed greens, too.
Dinner
Baked salmon with a side of avocado is a delicious and healthy dinner. You can serve this with boiled rice for gentle digestion. Add a side of steamed vegetables, including carrots, broccoli, and kale. These food items will reduce inflammation.
Snacks
Almonds and protein bars are excellent choices for quick, high-calorie snacks. You can have mouthfuls of Greek yogurt when hungry in between meals. Pair this with honey and berries to further enhance gut health. If you're craving something light and crunchy, go for plantain chips. These will offer fiber and potassium, helping with hydration and digestion.
Why You Need Support Groups for a Healthy Lifestyle
Lifestyle is not just about nutrition. You must also be emotionally healthy. You will have to juggle your professional and personal life, treatments, medication, and many other aspects of the disease. Even after meal-prepping, you might feel unfulfilled at the end of the day.
This is where mesothelioma support groups come in. These groups are a safe place to share your experiences with other patients. Being socially active in this way can help you manage your mental health better. Additionally, support groups have caregivers who can provide you with trusted information. They can bring positive changes into your life, helping you cope better. As a result, your social life can improve, ultimately enhancing your well-being.
Endnote
Your life should not end with a diagnosis. Living with mesothelioma is challenging, but it does not have to deteriorate your quality of life. You can become healthier and happier by focusing on physical health and emotional support. Follow the tips above to take control of your life as a mesothelioma patient!